With fuel prices continuing to rise, long-distance travel has become more expensive for South African motorists. Whether you’re heading to Durban for business or leisure, it’s crucial to budget for petrol and toll fees to avoid unexpected expenses. At the current inland fuel price of R22.41 per litre, a return trip from Joburg to Durban will cost a minimum of R1,961.74, depending on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you should prepare for before setting off.
Joburg to Durban: Journey to the Coast at R22 per Litre
Starting in central Gauteng, the drive to Durban covers approximately 584km and takes about six hours. With the inland petrol price for 95 unleaded currently sitting at R22.41 per litre, travel expenses have climbed significantly.
Below is a breakdown of estimated fuel costs based on vehicle efficiency:
| Efficiency | Fuel Needed | One-Way Cost | Return Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0l/100km | 29.20 litres | R654.37 | R1,308.74 |
| 6.0l/100km | 35.04 litres | R785.25 | R1,570.50 |
| 7.0l/100km | 40.88 litres | R916.12 | R1,832.24 |
| 8.0l/100km | 46.72 litres | R1,047 | R2,094 |
| 9.0l/100km | 52.56 litres | R1,177.87 | R2,355.74 |
| 10.0l/100km | 58.40 litres | R1,308.74 | R2,617.48 |
| 11.0l/100km | 64.24 litres | R1,439.62 | R2,879.24 |
| 12.0l/100km | 70.08 litres | R1,570.49 | R3,140.98 |
| 13.0l/100km | 75.92 litres | R1,701.37 | R3,402.74 |
Factoring in Toll Costs
In addition to petrol expenses, motorists must budget for toll fees along the N3, which add another R326.50 to the cost of a one-way trip. The toll fees are as follows:
- Mooi – R66
- Wilge – R88
- Tugela – R94
- De Hoek – R63
- Marian Hill – R15.50
Fortunately, e-tolls have been inactive for nearly a year, providing slight relief to motorists.
The Total Cost Breakdown
When factoring in fuel and toll expenses, the minimum cost to reach Durban is R980.87 for those with highly efficient vehicles. Meanwhile, those driving fuel-hungry cars could spend up to R2,027.87 for a one-way journey.
For a return trip, the total expenditure will range between R1,961.74 and R4,055.74, depending on the car’s fuel consumption.
Also Read: Petrol Price Drop: Driving to Cape Town, Joburg, Durban, or Kruger Is Now More Expensive Than Ever
With fuel prices at R22 per litre, a trip from Johannesburg to Durban requires careful financial planning. The total cost of the journey varies depending on your vehicle’s efficiency, but petrol and toll fees combined can quickly add up. Before embarking on your trip, be sure to budget accordingly to avoid any financial surprises along the way.
